Trekking from Caviahue to Copahue, Neuquén

A novel route in northern Patagonia, among forests of ancient araucaria trees, silent lakes, endless scree fields, high passes, snow-capped peaks and border markers. A magnificent trek through land of local ranchers and Mapuche reserves, in an unbeatable and little-known natural setting: Northern Patagonia, at the foot of the imposing Copahue Volcano.
West-central Neuquén is one of the environments chosen by a striking and beautiful species, the pehuén or araucaria tree. The Caviahue and Copahue mountain range is also one of the last remaining Mapuche settlement areas to this day. Our route invites you to blend culture with grand landscapes, between the giant and legendary Copahue Volcano and the mysterious Hualcupen lagoon. A trek at a level accessible to everyone who's up for the adventure of camping and hiking through magical places only reachable on foot.

What we present here is the planned route for the trip, but the exact route, layout and choice of alternative itineraries are subject to different factors such as weather conditions and the guide's assessment of the group.
 

Day before: Meeting in Caviahue in the afternoon. Guide introductions. Overnight stay not included (we can recommend some lodging options based on your preferences).

Day 1: We begin the adventure. Transfer to Valle de las Lecheras. Start of the trek. We head into the mountain range and into a wonderful Pehuen forest, an area used by herders who bring their livestock here after many days' walk from the Patagonian steppe. Hiking time approx 4 hs. Set up camp. Rest. 

Day 2: Day of trekking and crossing valleys. We cross a high pass, parallel to the border with Chile, from where we can see Hualcupén Lagoon; then we descend to the waterfall of the same name, where we'll set up our new camp. Enjoy the place and its scenery.  

Day 3: We have an early breakfast and start walking toward the ridges that mark the natural border between Argentina and Chile. We'll pass the summit of Cerro Pirámide and descend to the Agrio valley, where we'll visit the famous 7 waterfalls. Set up camp. 

Day 4: Descent to Caviahue. Transfer to Las Mellizas Lagoon and ascent of the legendary Copahue Volcano; then we'll descend along the route to Las Mellizas Lagoon and the spot known as Las Máquinas, very close to Copahue. Final transfer to Caviahue. End of the route. End of the program. Ask about lodging. 

Mode: Moderate-level trek. With a personal trekking backpack of no less than 55 liters (10/12 kilos per person at minimum).

Portering to the campsites: done by vehicle.

Included: Ascent of Cerro Pirámide, ascent to the crater of Copahue Volcano, Hualcupén waterfall and lagoon.

• Full board in the mountains
• Professional mountain guides.
• Portering to campsites by vehicle 
• Entry fees to Natural or Private reserves.
• Nights of lodging at backcountry campsites.
• Tents
• General camp logistics (pots, stoves, safety gear, orientation). 
• Ongoing coordination and advice before and during the trip.
• Ongoing assistance

• Travel to Caviahue
• Lodging in Caviahue (ask us)
• personal gear (see section)

During the activity we eat quick-digesting energy foods like fruit, energy bars, nougat, nuts, etc. At midday, cold food to keep going such as sandwiches, savory pies, empanadas, salads, etc. At night a hearty, hot meal such as pasta with sauce or lentil stew.

• Special trekking backpack (55 to 80 liters).
• Warm sleeping bag (0 degree comfort rating) (e.g. 700g of good down or synthetic fill).
• Insulating mat (10 to 15mm).
• A pair of trekking poles.

• Socks, (two thick pairs, ski or synthetic).
• 1 pair of trekking shoes/boots (in good condition)
• 1 lightweight backup pair of footwear.
• Long trekking pants 
• long warm pants or leggings.
• changes of underwear.
• t-shirts and/or shirts (one long-sleeved)
• warm layers (fleece jacket, or wool sweater)
• waterproof jacket 
• sun hat/cap (with brim) and another warm one
• bandana to cover the neck from the sun
• Warm gloves and scarf or neck gaiter.
• Warm hat

• ID document
• Health/medical insurance

• Headlamp with batteries.
• Sunglasses.
• Sunscreen, lip balm
• Toilet paper. Tissues. Baby wipes

• Water containers for at least 2 liters (can be a plastic bottle)
• Cutlery
• Plate or tupperware. (No glass or aluminum)
• Plastic or enameled metal mug (no glass or aluminum).
• Dish towel

• Warm jacket.
• SILVER TAPE, for blisters and repairs.
• Mate, bombilla and yerba.
• Steel thermos.
• Binoculars, monocular. Photo or video equipment.
• Book, notebook, travel journal, pencil, pen.
• Games; cards, dice, etc
• Pocketknife (e.g. Victorinox).
• Whistle and lighter.
• Sturdy plastic bags to store clothing.

People with little experience can take part, but good physical condition is required. Keep in mind you have to carry your own backpack with your gear plus a share of the group gear.

Approx between 4 and 7 hours. 

The meeting point is in Caviahue. You can travel to Neuquén and from there a 6-hour scheduled bus.

In tents provided by our company. You need to bring a sleeping bag and sleeping pad (we can rent these to you).

There's a section where you can see what you need to bring. A 60 to 80 liter trekking/expedition backpack, trekking footwear, sleeping bag and a third-layer parka jacket are the main items.

During the activity we eat quick-digesting energy foods like fruit, energy bars, nougat, nuts, etc. At midday, cold food to keep going such as sandwiches, savory pies, empanadas, salads, etc. At night a hearty, hot meal such as pasta with sauce or lentil stew.